First of all, I have to admit I haven't heard anything from his original album, so I can't comment on that, but having heard music from Halfway Between The Gutter And The Stars, Norman Cook has dropped slightly in my estimation since his 2nd album.

You've Come A Long Way Baby was a great album - although it introduced a slight 'pop-py' feel, the tunes were great when played loudly, catchy, and made good listening.

Now he's moved on, and unfortunately not in the way I had hoped. While his latest tracks are still good tunes, I think his harder, more rockier feel doesn't give his tunes quite the same atmosphere as before. They have a much darker feel to them, as was his intention, but in my opinion, it doesn't make them anywhere near as good to pump up nice and loud.

So while he's still demonstrating his amazing music skills, he's disappointed me, and I don't think he's done himself justice in this latest offering.

logi